Introduction Dietary supplements can support nutrient gaps, but inactive ingredients—hidden sugars, sugar alcohols, artificial sweeteners, and fillers—often influence outcomes. Learning to read labels and recognize common additives helps you choose products that align with health goals while avoiding unintended side effects. Why hidden sugars matter Manufacturers add sugars and syrups to improve taste in gummies, chewables, and powders. These appear under many names (maltodextrin, cane sugar, glucose syrup, evaporated cane juice, brown rice syrup) and may also be present in the “Other Ingredients” section. Regular intake of these sugars can increase caloric load, affect blood glucose regulation, and produce energy fluctuations. Check the Nutrition Facts for “Total Sugars” and “Added Sugars,” and scan ingredient lists for sugar synonyms—if a sweetener appears among the first five ingredients, the product is likely concentrated in sugar. Sugar alcohols and gastrointestinal effects Sugar alcohols (xylitol, sorbitol, erythritol, mannitol, isomalt) are common in “sugar-free” or low-sugar formulations. They provide sweetness with fewer calories and a lower glycemic impact, but many are fermentable and can cause bloating, gas, cramping, or diarrhea—especially in people with irritable bowel symptoms. Consider avoiding products with multiple polyols if you are sensitive to FODMAPs. Artificial sweeteners and metabolic considerations Non-nutritive sweeteners such as sucralose, aspartame, saccharin, and acesulfame potassium are calorie-free but may affect gut microbiota and appetite regulation in ways that are still being studied. Consumers aiming to minimize impacts on metabolic or microbiome health can look for formulations without chemical sweeteners or prefer botanically derived options like stevia or monk fruit, used sparingly. Fillers, stabilizers, and “other” ingredients Binders and excipients (magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide) are used for manufacturing ease, stability, and appearance. While generally recognized as safe in small amounts, they can be relevant for people with sensitivities, allergies, or concerns about long-term daily exposure. “Natural flavors” and “proprietary blends” are common label red flags: the former is a broad legal term that can mask many compounds, and the latter conceals individual dosages and proportions. Practical label-reading tips - Read both the Supplement Facts and the Other Ingredients section. - Identify sweeteners and their placement in the ingredient order. - Watch for multiple sweetening agents (sugar + syrup + sugar alcohol). - Be cautious with proprietary blends; seek products listing exact amounts. For deeper context on when supplements are necessary and how to evaluate formulations, see Do you need electrolyte supplements: when and why to use them and the TopVitamine brand selection guide 2025. For a focused checklist on identifying problematic additives, consult [How to Spot Hidden Sugars and Fillers in Your Supplements](https://www.topvitamine.com/blogs/news/spot-hidden-sugars-fillers-supplements). Conclusion Hidden sugars, sugar alcohols, artificial sweeteners, and fillers can alter the effects of supplements and produce unwanted side effects. A methodical label review—checking ingredient names, order, and Nutrition Facts—reduces surprises. When in doubt, opt for single-ingredient or transparently formulated products and consult product documentation or third-party testing. Additional resources are available at TopVitamine for general product information.